Ophthalmic Clinical Assistant

Job overview

As one of the country’s leading Ophthalmology units in the country, the Newcastle Eye Centre continually improves how it offers high quality services for patients, and excellent career satisfaction for its staff.

Our Optometry Department is no exception and we are delighted to be in a position to seek a Clinical Assistant to join the team at the Royal Victoria Infirmary. Having the right work/life balance is a key priority for us and as such applications are welcome from those seeking both full and part time employment. We have a diverse clinical workload including paediatrics, corneal, YAG capsulotomy, cataract and research clinics as well as specialised contact lens fitting (adult and paediatric) and low visual aids.

• Interview Date Wednesday 21 May 2025
• 37 Hours 30 Minutes/Week (part time hours considered)
• You will be redirected to Trac to apply for the vacancy.  Please expand the job details section and read all of the information before applying for the vacancy

NO AGENCIES PLEASE

Main duties of the job

The Clinical Assistant will support the Optometrist by undertaking a mix of both clinical and administrative roles. Clinical duties will include performing imaging techniques such as pentacam and specular microscopy, visual field testing, teaching contact lens patients how to care and handle their contact lenses, measuring visual acuity (adult and paediatric patients) and intraocular pressure. Administrative duties will centre mainly on the processing of contact lenses, this includes the timely ordering of contact lenses and appropriate dispatch to patients. Other duties include supporting the low vision service, research service, infection prevention and control link and responding to general optometry queries.

Successful candidates will demonstrate an enthusiasm for the role and the ability to understand and interpret information pertinent to the post whilst working within normal parameters concerning patient wellbeing and relevant professional standards. Previous work in an Ophthalmology setting is desirable but not essential as full training will be given.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

• To abide by Trust policies and procedures
• To lead and co-ordinate a range of clinical and non-clinical tasks and responsibilities as delegated by Head Optometrist/Orthoptist
• To be responsible for ensuring patient safety is assured while on duty
• To support the registered Optometrists/Orthoptists and work under their direction or other registered health care practitioners in providing high quality clinical care etc.
• Be an effective part of the multi-disciplinary team contributing to the departmental objectives
• Continue to develop and maintain competencies in direct patient care to maintain high quality and safe standard

As a flexible working friendly organisation, we want to be sure that you can work in a way that is best for us and for our patients, and for you. Speak to us about how we might be able to accommodate a flexible working arrangement. If it works for the service, we will do our best to make it work for you.